As part of the urban revival and awareness program, our team spearheaded a pilot project in November 2018, coinciding with the World Heritage Week. This initiative aimed to instill a sense of value and appreciation for the Old City's Heritage among both locals and visitors. Several thematic interventions unfolded, each contributing to the collective beautification and revitalization of the area.
In the realm of sanitation and cleanliness, efforts were directed towards keeping the streets tidy, removing caw excrement, raising awareness to avoid littering, and eliminating random storage that marred the streets' aesthetics. To infuse the area with lush greenery, vertical gardens sprouted, adorned with carefully chosen plant species, creating a harmonious blend of nature and urban life. In parallel, wall paintings adorned select locations, captivating attention and providing striking visual references.
Street lights were strategically installed, forming a fest route that guided visitors from the main gate to the event chowk, where an enchanting array of cultural experiences awaited. The general beautification efforts involved plaster repairs, painting, carpentry refinement, and the reparation of Kota Stone surfaces. Electric wire lines were organized, ensuring a safe and aesthetically pleasing environment.
Thoughtfully placed street furniture, including a CHAI VALA stand, benches, and seating areas, enhanced the pedestrian experience. The parking surface underwent reorganization, optimizing space utilization. During the Heritage week, certain areas were designated as no parking zones, allowing visitors to revel in the beauty of the Old City without vehicular interference. Restricted traffic in specific hours and the provision of bicycle parking devices further contributed to a pedestrian-friendly ambiance.
Throughout the week-long celebration, a diverse array of cultural events unfolded, enriching the tapestry of life in Dhal Ni Pol. From captivating musical performances, blending traditional and contemporary sounds, to a delightful exploration of the city's culinary heritage through a competition among locals and curated chef sessions. The festival also provided a platform for local artisans to showcase their craftsmanship in fields such as wooden carving, traditional wall paintings, fabric, fashion, textiles, pottery, and traditional utensils.
To involve the young and the young at heart, a special Kids and Family Day was celebrated, featuring interactive activities and engaging experiences for families. The LxS Exhibition showcased our own initiative, Photorama winners Exhibition, Ahmedabad Paintings, Video Projections, Illustrations, Ambli Maps Display, and dossier, as well as VDA Card files of Ahmedabad, capturing the essence of the city's rich cultural heritage.
Invited artist exhibitions added a touch of diversity, bringing varied perspectives to the festivities. Yoga sessions and sports activities promoted wellness and camaraderie among participants. Local training sessions and workshops provided a unique platform for universities to collaborate with the community, fostering a culture of knowledge exchange and mutual learning. Guided visits by architecture and design students enriched the experience, while botanic sessions with local schools nurtured a connection with nature.
Dancing performances during the festival included lively traditional Garba sessions, capturing the spirit of unity and celebration that pervaded the event. The heritage festival stood as a testament to the city's vibrant soul and its commitment to preserving and celebrating its unique heritage, allowing residents and visitors alike to cherish the timeless essence of Ahmedabad's Old City.
